I have a 305 Tuned Port all stock. I'm trying to decide what would be the best move for the engine. I want the 5.0 for the sake of keeping it original. I was wondering what I could do when I have it rebuilt so that it has at least mid 300 horse?

 

Why keep it all original? It's not like it's a collector's item. 1986 TA's are plentiful. A rebuild on a 305 is probably more expensive than a 350, so just build one of those and use your 305 as a yard ornament or a paperweight.

Long story short.
350
modified vortec heads with springs
HOT Cam
SDPC2000 TPI base
Headers
22 lb injectors

 

If you rebuild it in a way that increases it's output i.e. different pistons larger valves etc. then you are in fact making it non original and negating your reason for keeping it a 305. I would say take the original motor out of the car and rather than rebuild it, set it in storage and just put a different one in(whatever engine you chose) that way if you decide to take it back to "original" you'll have the original engine.

Hodge

getting a 350 or 305 core is fairly cheap and rebuilding it will cost around the same. the 350 may actually be cheaper to rebuild simply because it is a more popular engine choice and the prices of rotating parts are cheaper.

Just my $.02

 

i would go with a 350.....but i jus rebuilt my 305 and im pushin around 325 horses..not bad for a paperweght or a lawnornament

 

look at my response in this post https://www.thirdgen.org/techbb2/sho...hreadid=118963